High Seas Fisheries Authorisation Programme
Vice President launches the High Seas Fisheries Authorisation Programme, enabling Indian fishermen to sustainably access deep-sea resources, boost seafood exports, and create new livelihood opportunities.
India has taken a significant step towards expanding its blue economy with the launch of the High Seas Fisheries Authorisation Programme, aimed at promoting sustainable deep-sea fishing and unlocking the vast potential of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and high seas.
Launching the national programme in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan unveiled the framework for issuing Letters of Authorisation (LoAs) for sustainable fishing operations in the high seas. During the event, the Odisha Deep Sea Fishing Mission Document was also released, while Letters of Authorisation were handed over to ten Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FPPOs) and fishermen representing different states.
The Vice President described the initiative as a landmark move that opens a new chapter in India’s maritime development. He said the programme has been designed to empower Indian fishermen to responsibly access deep-sea resources while ensuring the long-term conservation of marine ecosystems.
Highlighting India’s marine potential, he noted that the country has more than 11,000 kilometres of coastline and an Exclusive Economic Zone spanning nearly 2.4 million square kilometres, much of which remains underutilised. The new authorisation framework is expected to encourage fishing beyond coastal waters, particularly for high-value species such as tuna.
Speaking on the growth of the fisheries sector, the Vice President said India is the world’s second-largest fish producer, contributing around 8 percent of global fish production. The sector supports the livelihoods of nearly 30 million fishermen and fish farmers, while seafood exports exceeded ₹73,000 crore during the previous financial year. He said the High Seas Fisheries Authorisation Programme is expected to strengthen exports and generate employment across harvesting, processing, cold-chain logistics, transportation, packaging and export services.
The programme prioritises fisheries cooperatives, Fish Farmer Producer Organisations and Indian fishermen for the allocation of Letters of Authorisation, promoting inclusive growth and wider participation in the sector.
Calling sustainable fishing a shared responsibility, the Vice President stressed that economic progress must be balanced with marine conservation. He also highlighted the importance of digital authorisation systems, vessel tracking, international certification and strict compliance with global measures to prevent illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. Encouraging young people to explore fisheries as a technology-driven profession, he said innovation, scientific practices and institutional support will play a key role in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
